VHO Need Reflectors?

[Aquariust]

Hello All!

I am going to be running a single 60" 140W VHO bulb over my tank.

The bulbs say they have internal reflectors. Do I need to use reflectors? I need to find something 60-70" long to prevent light from escaping the hood.

Reflectors would do it, but I can't find any reflectors that big! My best bet is to buy 2 34" refectors. But, if the bulbs have internal reflectors will I benefit from having extra reflectors?

Or could I use wood as a shield to prevent light from escaping the top of the hood? My hood has large vents in the top.

Thanks All!

[naser]

i have no's that have that same internal reflector. they seem to work great by them selves. reflectors allways work better but im not sure if it would be worth the extra time and money!

[icemark]

If you believe the hype properly designed reflectors (like spiderlights) can add up to 20% more light...

20%... thats more than 30 more watts for you with no extra electrical penalty.

Yes, even with internal reflectors all the light still escaping from the sides of the bulbs will be reflected back into the tank.

Poorly designed reflectors will actually lower the available light.